Did you know that we need our saliva to be a pH of 7 or above to protect our teeth from harsh acidity occurring in our mouths? Meals and snacks that contain highly acidic properties can lead to an imbalance in pH and contribute to poor oral health.
Bacteria thrive in acidic environments. In order to prevent periodontal disease and to optimize whole body health, we want to aim to be slightly alkaline. Unfortunately, most of us are considered more acidic due to our diet and lifestyle choices. Add food and lifestyle practices that more alkaline to protect those pearly whites!
5 Ways to Be More Alkaline:
1. IT’S EASY BEING GREEN
Go green! Try adding kale, cucumber, asparagus and broccoli into your daily meals and snacks. Aim for about 10 servings of vegetables per day. Use vegetables in salads, soups, stir-fries or simply eat them as raw vegetable sticks!
Try a pH balancing supplement like a greens powder to take it to the next level.
2. DITCH THE PROCESSED JUNK
Processed cheese, crackers, cakes, pastries and artificial sweeteners are very acidic. Ditch the junk and sugar and you will be well on your way to a more alkaline body!
3. SPROUT MORE
Once beans and seeds are sprouted they have an amped up alkaline nutrient punch. Buy sprouts at your local grocery store, or better yet grow your own using a sprouting kit!
4. STRESS LESS
Our daily stresses can lead to acid production in the body. Practice deep breathing, read something you enjoy or take a walk through nature to reduce acidity in the body.
5. GET MOVING
Go for a brisk walk, a bike ride or a swim. Movement encourages the body’s natural elimination processes. Use exercise to eliminate acidic waste more efficiently.
Try these tips to help prevent going acidic and protect your teeth and gums! However, if you’re worried that you already have periodontal disease or you have started to notice tooth decay, contact Dr. Estrabillo’s office today to schedule an appointment.
